January 07, 2015, 11:19AM

December 29, 2014, 5:47PM

A quiet push by lawmakers to update the state's rules around locating automated teller machines, or ATMs, at casinos has sparked a heated debate over whether the cash machines belong at casino resorts and confusion over what the Legislature is trying to accomplish. Full story »

December 09, 2014, 9:36AM

When it came time for the farewell speeches on Dec. 4 for the members of the state Senate who are retiring, state Sen. Stephen Brewer, D-Barre,said the most important vote he'd taken was to preserve marriage equality for gay couples. He also took the opportunity to good-naturedly chide Gov. Deval Patrick for cuts he made to regional school transportation... Full story »

December 04, 2014, 7:26PM

Lawmakers accustomed to policy skirmishes on the chamber floor spoke haltingly at times as the Senate bid goodbye to Therese Murray, Ways and Means Chairman Stephen Brewer of Barre, President Pro Tem Richard Moore of Uxbridge and Sens. Gale Candaras of Wilbraham and Barry Finegold of Andover. Full story »

November 26, 2014, 7:02AM

“For over a quarter of a century, Senator Brewer has been committed to making our open spaces and watershed the best in the country,” added Jack Murray, conservation and recreation commissioner. Full story »

July 30, 2014, 8:06PM

The sales tax holiday was included in an economic development bill, which is among the last major pieces of legislation being considered before the legislative session ends for the year on Thursday. Full story »

July 12, 2014, 4:30PM

A bill progressed through the Massachusetts Senate this week authorizing the spending of up to $5 million to dredge the north end of Lake Wickaboag in West Brookfield to increase its depth and the overall water quality. Full story »

May 29, 2014, 3:15PM

Memories of the destructive wreckage of three years ago when deadly tornadoes ripped through town remain on people’s minds but rebuilding and replanting efforts provide solace in a different landscape that will take a long time to come back. Full story »

March 12, 2014, 3:36PM

Leaders in the State House and Senate came to an agreement on Wednesday that would increase local government aid and education aid to cities and towns by $125 million in fiscal year 2015 - $25 million more than Gov. Deval Patrick had proposed. Full story »